THE family of Sean Laxen, the nine-year-old schoolboy who tragically drowned after falling into the River Conwy last week, have paid an emotional tribute to their “happy, playful and adoring child”.

In a police statement, Sean’s parents Linda, 44, and Robert, 55, said their son gave them nine wonderful years of memories.

Holidaymaker Sean, from Norwich in Norfolk, was swept away by the swollen waters of the river while out walking with his mum and brother Scott, eight, at Conwy Falls in Betws-y-Coed on August 20. He slipped down a 6ft embankment from the footpath and fell into the fast-flowing water below.

The family thanked the rescue team who helped recover the youngster’s body after almost 27 hours of searching.

“We would like to extend our eternal gratitude to all those who helped in the search and would like to thank them for bringing our son back, although their courageous efforts could not have brought him back to life,” read a statement.

Sean enjoyed Norfolk beaches, countryside walks, cycle rides and nature and had a “special bond” with his younger brother.

His particular interests were with animals, of which dinosaurs were his favourite. More recently Sean was fascinated by the story of the Titanic, having seen parts of the movie.

“He was always questioning why it happened and was recently given a construction model by a friend, which we were going to build when he was a little older. However, his summer compromise was a DIY wood and plastic model made with his father and brother,” they added.

“Coming from Norfolk, both Sean and Scott had grown up with water and were fascinated with it. As parents we constantly instilled the dangers and taught them to respect water.

“Although Sean has tragically left us, he has given us nine of the most wonderful years parents and a brother could have ever wanted, leaving us with treasured memories that will be with us forever.”

An inquest into Sean’s death has been opened and adjourned.

At a brief hearing in Wrexham on August 24, North Wales central coroner John Hughes was told the youngster died from drowning.